Whooping cough cases on the rise in Alabama and nationwide

DOTHAN, Ala. (WDHN) — Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is rising among Americans, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data .

The most recent data available shows that nearly 18,000 cases had been reported as of the week ending October 5 .

So far this year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows at least 47 cases of whooping cough in Alabama, from the beginning of the year through October 5. That’s an increase from the 41 cases reported during the same time period in 2023.

That count likely does not include all cases since cumulative year-to-date numbers are determined from periods of time when the condition was reportable in the jurisdiction. That means not all weeks may have data.

Here in the Wiregrass, Southeast Health tells WDHN that they have not seen any cases recently.

Whooping cough is an extremely contagious, bacterial respiratory infection.

Whooping cough causes swelling in the airways, which can lead to involuntary coughing or sneezing to clear the passages, which is also how it is spread.

It can start like a cold- a low fever, mild cough, and runny nose for 1-2 weeks, but can quickly progress into a second stage with violent coughing attacks leaving individuals suffering from it gasping for air.

In babies, it may not show itself as coughing at all, and instead, brief periods where the baby stops breathing, known as apnea.

Treating whooping cough is best when caught early and with antibiotics and plenty of water.

To prevent whooping cough, you should also be sure to keep your and your baby’s vaccines up to date.

For more information on whooping cough, read the CDC’s article here !

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